Hard to find parts for??
What parts were you looking for??
Your friendly local Honda dealer should be able to get plenty of stuff for that bike.
Honda seems to keep older bike parts active in their systems longer than the "other guys".
(maybe 'cuz their bikes seem to last longer??)
You might want to try more than one dealer though. Some dealers would rather sell you a new bike rather than parts for your old one.
(if you know what i mean??)
Also, are you sure your bike is an '82, and not an '83??
XR's, and their XL brothers, did'nt use disc brakes until 1983.
(ie: 1983 XL600R & 1983 XR500R)
Best way to tell:
'83 XR500R had 2 carbs (not 1)
had the "R.F.V.C." engine -w- r.f.v.c. logo on right side(?) of the head.
color was "flash red" (orange) not the older "tahitian red" (deep red).
had "500R-pro link" on swingarm (not just "pro link)
front number plate above (not below) headlight.
number plate backgrounds were yellow (not white)
Of course someone could have adapted a disc to your bike, or it could be some kind of late production model -w- the '83 disc brake (should be front not rear by the way) fitted to it.
Oh, as for the original question.
IMO i think they're great!!
(love that old fashioned "tractor like" Honda tourque!!)
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